4 replies to this topic

[scov93]

is acne really a disease?: a theory of acne as an evolutionarily significant, high-order psychoneuroimmune interaction timed to cortical development with a crucial role in mate choice.


Adolescent acne is considered from the perspective of evolutionary psychology with an emphasis on a role in mate choice. The fact that acne, which is almost universal and not a true infection, is (1) initiated at puberty by the action of pubertal hormones on likely distinct, pro-acne follices, and (2) typically resolves in one's early twenties when prefrontal cortex development is complete, suggests that the condition's timeframe is meaningful. Acne's conspicuous localization on the face, and its ability to elicit reflexive disgust and avoidance in observers, suggests a possible role in sexual selection. The pathophysiology of acne is reviewed, and the suggestion made that, far from being a disease, adolescent acne is a normal physiological process - a high-order psychoneuroimmune interaction - that functions to ward off potential mates until the afflicted individual is some years past the age of reproductive maturity, and thus emotionally, intellectually, and physically fit to be a parent

DF Bloom

just came across this while searching various things on google don't really know what to make of it lol

[Ind1g0]

The article is hilarious. Basically it is saying that acne's purpose is to keep teens from having sex until the appropriate age. Just another rubbish based politically fueled "psychology" article whose secret intention is not to cure or educate about acne, but to push the flawed idea that biologically, humans are not ready to have children until mid twenties. Ridiculous.

As for whether or not acne is a disease, which is not what the article is implying (by the way), is that acne is a symptom of a much greater problem and not a disease in itself. In other words, acne is like the cough the signifies pneumonia (the greater problem).

Most of us acne sufferers have something going on inside, whether it be hormone issues, digestive problems, immune or vitamin imbalances, food intolerances or high blood sugar, which can all be cured through diet. Our skin reflects what is going on in the inside. It is our largest surface area organ, after all.

[Rawhide]

Intredasting.. Doesn't explain adult acne or why some are able to clear up by diet changes.
But there is definitely strong connection between brain health and acne.

[perseverant]

Omg lol..I just joined this site, and I must say that that was one thing I did not want to see while reading these forums for the first time. I have never heard of that theory before, it sure is ignorant. I don't want kids ever, so in return, is that why I'm being punished by having severe acne? I think not. Most ridiculous thing I've read about acne theories. I do agree though that some people get acne and some don't because they are either afflicted or not afflicted by their genes they have and their hormones. My parents had severe acne for a long time in their teen years, and even as adults, mostly on their face, and they still had acne as a parent..so that pretty much proves that the article you found is complete and utter bs. Although it is odd that in all the time that I've seen my mom's face growing up, she has never had acne that would result in disgust from observers...my acne on the other hand, does do that. Interesting theory..but scientifically and realistically..it makes no sense.

[Seeking2012]

is acne really a disease?: a theory of acne as an evolutionarily significant, high-order psychoneuroimmune interaction timed to cortical development with a crucial role in mate choice.


Adolescent acne is considered from the perspective of evolutionary psychology with an emphasis on a role in mate choice. The fact that acne, which is almost universal and not a true infection, is (1) initiated at puberty by the action of pubertal hormones on likely distinct, pro-acne follices, and (2) typically resolves in one's early twenties when prefrontal cortex development is complete, suggests that the condition's timeframe is meaningful. Acne's conspicuous localization on the face, and its ability to elicit reflexive disgust and avoidance in observers, suggests a possible role in sexual selection. The pathophysiology of acne is reviewed, and the suggestion made that, far from being a disease, adolescent acne is a normal physiological process - a high-order psychoneuroimmune interaction - that functions to ward off potential mates until the afflicted individual is some years past the age of reproductive maturity, and thus emotionally, intellectually, and physically fit to be a parent

DF Bloom

just came across this while searching various things on google don't really know what to make of it lol

This sounds like it is based more on someone's opinion than science. I laughed when I read it.